Decision details

To consider the comments received following the formal consultation associated with the proposed 18 tonne weight limit Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) on the A3098 through Chapmanslade. 

I approve that:

(i)         The proposal be implemented as advertised.  That is to make an 18 tonne weight restriction on the A3098, which commences at Berkley Cross in Somerset and continues through Chapmanslade to the slip road with the A36 at Dead Maids.

(ii)        The objectors be informed accordingly.

            This decision was published on  29 October 2015 and will come into          force on 6 November 2015.           

The introduction of an 18 tonne weight limit will protect the amenity of residents in Chapmanslade and also remove the confusion regarding the existing signed 17 tonne weight restriction, which is not enforceable. 

To:

(i)              Abandon the proposal and do nothing.

This would leave the existing 17 tonne weight limit signs in place. This would be an unsatisfactory situation since the signs do not relate to an enforceable weight limit. 

(ii)             Remove the old 17 tonne weight limit signs and leave the road open to all traffic.

This option would mean that there are no restrictions along the route so that all traffic, including HGVs greater than 18 tonnes, would be allowed along the route.  This is likely to be unpopular with residents since they are expecting a more stringent weight limit (7.5 tonne) as opposed to a relaxation of weight limits.  It should be noted that the      7.5 tonne area weight limit was suggested as part of a package of weight limits in western Wiltshire to safeguard Chapmanslade from rerouting as a result of the proposed weight limit through the B3098 through Maiden Bradley (see paragraph (iii) below). 

(iii)            Implement the made 7.5 tonne weight limit.

The 7.5 tonne weight limit formed part of a wider package of weight limits in western Wiltshire.  Implementing one of the three proposed weight limits is likely to displace restricted HGVs on to the otherequally unsuitable routes.  In addition, Somerset County Council opposed this proposal and has stated that it is notprepared to assist with advance signing.

(iv)           Advertise an 18 tonne weight limit.

Somerset County Council has indicated that it would be willing to work with the Council if an 18 tonne weight limit was proposed along this section of the A3098.  This option would not preclude the future implementation of a 7.5 tonne weight limit as part of a wider scheme in western Wiltshire.  Importantly, this option will provide an enforceable weight limit and protect the amenity of those living along the route. 

The formal advertisement for the proposed 18 tonne weight limit ended on 15 June 2015.  During this period three comments have been received as shown in Appendix 1.  All three of these are in objection to the proposal. The comments received, along with the officer comments, are available at Appendix 2.  This report deals with those comments made in relation to the proposed 18 tonne weight limit though Chapmanslade.  The attached Appendix 3 shows the extent of the proposal. 

It should be noted that Chapmanslade Parish Council, Warminster’s Community Area Transport Group and Somerset County Council were included in the consultation exercise.